Receiving "Scam Likely" calls can be a persistent nuisance, but several effective strategies can help reduce these unwanted interruptions.
What Are 'Scam Likely' Calls?
"Scam Likely" calls are flagged by your carrier as potential scam attempts, often using spoofed numbers to appear legitimate. These calls can be disruptive and may lead to financial loss if not addressed.
How Can I Block 'Scam Likely' Calls on My Phone?
For iPhone Users:
- Silence Unknown Callers: Navigate to Settings > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers and toggle it on. This feature sends calls from numbers not in your contacts directly to voicemail. (aura.com)
For Android Users:
- Enable Spam Protection: Open the Phone app, go to Settings > Caller ID & Spam, and enable both "See caller and spam ID" and "Filter spam calls." This will warn you about potential scam numbers. (malwarebytes.com)
What Carrier Services Are Available to Block Scam Calls?
Major U.S. carriers offer services to help block scam calls:
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T-Mobile: Offers Scam Shield, which provides scam call blocking and caller ID features. (howtogeek.com)
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Verizon: Provides Call Filter, which identifies and blocks potential scam calls. (malwarebytes.com)
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AT&T: Offers ActiveArmor, which includes scam call blocking and caller ID features. (malwarebytes.com)
Are There Third-Party Apps to Block Scam Calls?
Yes, several apps can help identify and block scam calls:
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RoboKiller: An app that uses a database of known scam numbers to block unwanted calls. (kiplinger.com)
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Hiya: Provides caller ID and spam blocking features. (kiplinger.com)
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Truecaller: Offers spam detection and blocking capabilities. (kiplinger.com)
How Can I Report Scam Calls?
Reporting scam calls helps authorities take action against scammers:
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Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report unwanted calls to the FTC. (usa.gov)
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Federal Communications Commission (FCC): File complaints about robocalls and other unwanted calls. (usa.gov)
What Is the National Do Not Call Registry?
The National Do Not Call Registry allows you to opt out of receiving unsolicited sales calls. Registering your number can reduce such calls, but it won't stop illegal robocalls or spoofed scam numbers. (usa.gov)
How Can I Protect Myself from Scam Calls?
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Be Cautious: Avoid sharing personal information over the phone unless you're certain of the caller's identity.
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Stay Informed: Regularly update your device's software and apps to benefit from the latest security features.
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Use Call Blocking Features: Utilize your phone's built-in features and carrier services to block or filter unwanted calls.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of "Scam Likely" calls you receive, enhancing your phone's security and your peace of mind.
Highlights:
- New Washington state law should mean fewer spam robocalls, Published on Tuesday, May 16
- Tired of Unwanted Calls? Here's How to Help Thwart the Robocaller Invasion, Published on Friday, March 06
- The Government Finally Did Something About Robocalls, Published on Friday, December 15
